Paderborn Delights: A 5-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Discover Paderborn: Where family adventures unfold in the heart of Germany.

19 July 2023

Paderborn, Germany offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with plenty of activities for everyone. Explore the fascinating Paderborn Cathedral, one of the oldest religious buildings in Germany, and let the kids marvel at its stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the Pader River, known for its picturesque landscapes and charming walking paths that are perfect for a family outing. Lastly, don't miss a visit to the Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum, the world's largest computer museum, where kids can immerse themselves in the history and evolution of technology.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Medieval Charm

  • Start the day by visiting the impressive Paderborn Cathedral, with its striking towers and intricate stained glass windows.
  • Wander through the cobblestone streets of the old town and soak in the medieval atmosphere.
  • Stop by the Heinz Nixdorf Museum, the world's largest computer museum, and geek out over the fascinating history of technology.
  • Enjoy a traditional German lunch at the cozy Kupferkessel restaurant, where schnitzel and bratwurst reign supreme.
  • Take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful Stadtgarten, a serene park with lush greenery and meandering pathways.
  • End the day with a tasty dinner at Alt Paderborn, a charming restaurant serving hearty German classics like sauerbraten and apple strudel.
Day 2

Discovering Natural Treasures

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Café Grün, a trendy spot known for its organic and locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Head to the Pader Springs, Europe's largest natural spring complex, and marvel at the crystal-clear water gushing from the ground.
  • Embark on a scenic bike ride along the Pader Cycle Path, enjoying the picturesque views of the river and surrounding countryside.
  • Visit the stunning Neuhaus Castle and explore its lush gardens and fascinating history.
  • Treat yourself to a refreshing ice cream at Eisdiele am Abdinghof, a local favorite with inventive flavors like lavender and basil.
  • Dine at Ratskeller, a historic cellar restaurant offering traditional German fare in a rustic setting.
Day 3

Family Adventure Day

  • Start the day with a fun-filled visit to Haxtergrund Adventure Playground, where kids can climb, swing, and slide to their hearts' content.
  • Take a short drive to the Driburg Therme, a water park with thrilling slides and relaxing pools for both kids and adults.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch in the tranquil Benteler Forest, surrounded by towering trees and chirping birds.
  • Visit the impressive Libori-Galerie, a shopping center that offers a mix of local boutiques and popular international brands.
  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at Moccaflor, a charming café serving mouthwatering homemade cakes and pastries.
  • End the day with a family-friendly movie at Cineplex Paderborn, a modern theater with comfortable seats and a wide selection of films.
Day 4

Cultural Immersion

  • Start the day with a visit to the Diocesan Museum, housing a fascinating collection of religious art and artifacts.
  • Explore the monumental Kaiserpfalz, an ancient palace showcasing Paderborn's rich history and breathtaking architecture.
  • Browse the vibrant Paderborn Farmers Market, where you can sample local delicacies and purchase fresh produce.
  • Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the serene Lippesee Lake, taking in the scenic beauty and relaxing ambiance.
  • Dine at Il Padrino, a cozy Italian trattoria known for its mouthwatering pasta dishes and rustic atmosphere.
  • End the evening with a visit to the Lenzsiedlung Open-Air Museum, a living history village showcasing rural life in the region.
Day 5

Relaxation and Farewell

  • Begin the day with a tranquil morning walk in the idyllic Abdinghof Park, surrounded by fragrant flowers and soothing fountains.
  • Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience at the Hufeland-Therme, enjoying the therapeutic pools and pampering treatments.
  • Savor a delicious lunch at Gasthaus Eule, a charming gastropub offering a delightful mix of German and international cuisine.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the charming boutiques and shops in Paderborn's city center, picking up unique souvenirs.
  • Make a toast to your fantastic trip at Rathauskeller Paderborn, a historic wine cellar offering an extensive selection of wines and an inviting atmosphere.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Paderborn, Germany by plane is to fly into Paderborn Lippstadt Airport (PAD) which is located just over 10km away from the city centre. Multiple airlines offer direct flights from major European cities such as London, Munich, and Vienna.

Car

The best way to get to Paderborn, Germany by car would be to take the A33 motorway which runs directly to Paderborn. From Berlin, it would take around 4.5 hours to reach Paderborn by car, but it is recommended to check traffic and weather conditions beforehand.

Train

The best way to get to Paderborn, Germany by train would be to take a high-speed train to the Paderborn main station which is well connected to multiple German cities such as Berlin, Cologne, and Hamburg. The ICE train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof takes just over three hours to reach Paderborn.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Paderborn, Germany by boat as it is not a coastal city. The nearest port is in Bremen which is over 200km away from Paderborn.

Bus

The best way to get to Paderborn, Germany by bus is to book a coach service such as Flixbus, which offers regular services from various German cities including Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg to Paderborn.

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